Go shopping and make an impact in the world

The story of how this business started is a book in itself! I will save that for another day. 

But here we are, with very humble beginnings working in my dining room. I have set up a little desk where I can look out into the beauty of my garden, not a bad office. 

I guess I should start with the purpose of my shop. Found through any months of conversations with God I have become, what I now know is an 'entrepreneur' (not something I ever would call myself!), to build a community that honestly desires to make the world a better place. 

There is so much need across the globe that it is often overwhelming. I have cried many times watching the news, feeling totally inept and so useless to 'fix' the many issues that fill our world. 

In prayer I have asked what can I do? How can I make a difference? I know the bible talks about the importance of helping the poor and marginalized, to love, help and support them. 

But I felt that the little I could do, was not ever going to help. Then I realized I was always focusing on the 'I', that was until I read Matthew 16:24. Finally the penny dropped, 'I' didn't have to do anything except to partner with Jesus and let him lead me. He would determine my contribution to the planet. I just had to trust him enough to follow. 

He led be down an uncomfortable road of learning and research, into an area I was certainly no expert. (I think he loves to take us out of our comfort zone so that we have no other choice but to lean on him!)

I soon realized though, even though it was hard I was never alone. Every time I started to flounder, he would whisper and when I listened, I would know exactly what to do next. And so a few months down the track I am ahead of the timeline I gave myself and have ticked a large number of things of my to do list. 

So what did he ask of me....to set up a business that not only sold inspirational t-shirts and hoodies that would hopefully encourage others but that I would set apart the profits to be used in different missions around the globe.

From the smallest local group to the wider international mission fields, there is always a need for financial backing to help create programs that can support communities in need, feed the poor and bring hope.

It is my prayer that through this endeavor we will listen to the Lord and seek out opportunities to support those less fortunate. 

When first contemplating this project, I had a dream to contribute to our local Christmas appeal by donating bikes to the under privileged youth in our city. I have a target in mind which is not small...I don't know if it can be achieved and it will only be by wonderful customers finding this shop and supporting us that it will happen. I just keep working towards the goal of opening the shop and praying God will do the rest. I have long since learnt that I have to trust in him and to him will go the glory. 

So that is where any profits in 2024 will go. You can follow our socials on Facebook, Pinterest & Instagram to see what we can achieve through the rest of the year. 

And by 'we' I mean 'you and I'. Unitee Studio was a very deliberate name. Only in unity can we become the church that Jesus talked about, the gathering that serves and helps others. I cannot do this alone. Not only have I already been blown away by the people who have stepped up to help in this journey but I have also had confirming conversations with pastors and leaders that lead me to believe that this is just the start. 

I am looking forward to working with talented designers and artists who can collaborate to make new collections and add their unique and beautiful style to the fashion items we create. 

Firstly, you can share links to our shop, social media, blog and website. Helping us to spread the message of Unitee Studio is the biggest step we have to take. The more eyeballs we get on our stores and social media the more likely we are to sell products that will raise the funds we need. 

From one small dining room the need to be seen hundreds of thousands feels almost impossible but I know the power of people with a passion to help others. If everyone shares and asks family and friends, co-workers and neighbours to do the same we can do this. We need you all.

Secondly, if there is anything that is in the shop that you would love for yourself or someone you love, a purchase of course is the ultimate contribution. Know that the majority of profits (approx 90%) will be going to our philanthropic endeavors and you can keep track of what is happening via our social media pages. So not only will you look good but you can feel good about your purchase too!

And thirdly, if you do purchase we would be so grateful if you always leave us a review. It helps us with the 'dreaded' algorithm, so that others can find us and share in the joy of helping others whilst shopping!

So here we go, I do hope you will follow along the road that has been put before us. It should be an amazing, life affirming journey.